Tuesday, 18 October 2016 13:37

How Facial Massage Can Benefit Clients and the Spa

Written by   Jamina Metcalf, L.E., educator for Skin Fitness Therapy

Many schools and spas do not incorporate facial massage into their teachings or facial treatments. With numerous physical benefits, facial massage is, quite possibly, the most important aspect of any facial treatment.

 

 

Blood Circulation
An increase in blood circulation throughout the body is essential to detoxifying the skin, as well as ensuring that nutrients are getting to where they are supposed to be. The blood carries amino acids, vitamins, and fats to cells, essential components in providing energy for healthy cellular function. "Your blood is a fluid that connects all body cells. Not only does it bring nutrients and oxygen to the cells from the lungs and digestive tract, it carries waste products away from the cells for disposal."1 Without stimulation and movement, a person's blood becomes stagnate, leading to sluggish cells. Facial massage stimulates blood flow, thereby increasing cell energy, which leads to healthy, glowing skin!pic1

Oxygenation
Blood circulation not only delivers nutrients, but also carries oxygen to the cells. Oxygenation in the cells is important for proper cell function, especially when it comes to removing toxic buildup. When there is an abundance of toxins in the blood, cells cannot properly do their job and the result is sluggish skin that can lead to wrinkles, sagging, and a greyish skin tone. Massage stimulates oxygen in the blood, which is essential for healthy cellular function. "After a massage, the oxygen content in the bloodstream can increase as much as 15%."2 An oxygen increase in the skin can significantly decrease wrinkle depth. Not only does facial massage contribute to cellular health, but it also benefits facial muscles that can help lift, firm, and plump the skin to give it a more youthful glow.

Lifting, Firming, and Plumping
As the body ages, skin starts sagging. Sagging skin is due to a slowing down of collagen and elastin production, as well as atrophy of the muscle tissue. Think about that unsightly arm flab that most people get as they age. When a person starts to exercise and lift weights, they usually see dramatic results and the flab becomes nice lean muscle that is firm and lifted! The face also has muscles that, when not stimulated, become weak and saggy. Massage works the muscles to increase its tone, which, in turn, helps to define the facial muscles for firmer skin!

diagramFacial massage is not only beneficial for the client, but can increase customer returns exponentially. The touch is an amazing thing and the exchange of energy between the professional and the client is healing and nurturing and can be the sole factor as to whether or not clients come back and visit the spa.

There are two main reasons a client wants a facial: to correct and improve their skin and to relieve stress. In today's modern society, people are always on the go. Alleviating stress is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. There are even some relaxation centers where clients pay to lay down in a quiet room to help calm their nerves. Stress can lead to many complications, including heart disease, mental illness, high blood pressure, anxiety, and digestive problems. People are now aware that in order to maintain good health, reducing stress is just as important as eating a healthy diet and exercising.

Long massages not only calm the client's mind and encourage deep relaxation, but also treat their skin at the same time. The results are instantaneous and they will immediately notice firmer, plumper, and younger-looking skin. They will also feel grounded, refreshed, and in a much healthier state of mind. When professionals provide someone with that feeling of calmness and they see positive results in the appearance of their skin, they will be back again and again. These results can be accomplished through facial massage.

References
1 LIVESTRONG. (2016). Blood Plasma and Nutrients.
2 New Horizons Massage, LLC. (2016). Blood and Lymph Circulation.

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